Style destination: Chiang Mai, Thailand

Day one: Exploring Chiang Mai

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Image by: Style at Home
By: Erin McLaughlin
Source: Ping Nakara

I stayed at Ping Nakara, a sophisticated Colonial-style hotel with a laid-back yet luxurious vibe. The best part is the hotel’s location – it feels remote despite its proximity to the action. It’s also the site of Nakara Spa, which offers Ayurvedic treatments in a peaceful environment. Try its invigorating Abhyanga massage before embarking on a day of strolling and sightseeing.

Get a shot of energy

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Image by: Style at Home
By: Erin McLaughlin
Source: Erin McLaughlin

Good news: There’s no shortage of coffee shops in Chiang Mai, so you won’t need to travel far to get a good cup of joe. I especially loved the eclectic FunkyDog Cafe, where I ordered the best banana pancakes and a coconut smoothie served with a shot of espresso.

Coffee break

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Image by: Style at Home
By: Erin McLaughlin
Source: Erin McLaughlin

Thin Thai Factory, one of the places Artemano sources wood from, has an on-site cafe where I had one of my favourite lattes.

Make sure to catch the show

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Image by: Style at Home
By: Erin McLaughlin
Source: Erin McLaughlin

Plan your trip to coincide with the Chiang Mai Flower Festival, which takes place in February and features a parade, exhibition and competition. Be sure to check out the displays around the Thapae Gate, showcasing unique flower and plant products from northern Thailand growers. I picked up pretty paper flowers to give to the Style at Home staffers. Spend the evening exploring one of Chiang Mai’s fresh markets, which sell produce, meats and prepared foods. There’s plenty to see and taste, and there’s always an incredible variety of fruit and veg available, fresh or juiced. I ate like a local, ordering a traditional fish dish cooked with chili peppers and coriander.

Day two: See the craftsmen's work

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Image by: Style at Home
By: Erin McLaughlin
Source: Julio Mestress

Head to Baan Tawai Village, the handicraft village in Chiang Mai’s Hang Dong district. The area was established when villagers employed as loggers used leftover wood to make small carved pieces in their spare time. Even if you’re not in the market for shipping a teak table back home, it’s always interesting to see the talented woodcarvers do their thing.

Dinner and a view

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Image by: Style at Home
By: Erin McLaughlin
Source: Erin McLaughlin

Dine at The Gallery along the Ping River. Go for the elegant atmos­phere, live music and authentic northern Thai dishes. (Plus, it’s Hillary Clinton approved!)